Tickhill Castle in Doncaster traces its origins to the 11th century, beginning as Blythe Castle, a motte-and-bailey earthwork built by Roger de Busli following the Norman Conquest. After a siege in 1102, a stone curtain wall was added; Henry II then constructed an 11-sided keep between 1180-1192, along with a stone bridge and chapel commissioned by Eleanor of Aquitaine. The castle achieved prominence during King John's reign when its defences were enhanced with a barbican. John O'Gaunt later assumed ownership, making it part of the vast Duchy of Lancaster estates. During the Civil War, the Roundhead forces captured this Royalist stronghold. Today held by the Duchy of Lancaster and operating as a private residence, Tickhill Castle hosts an annual open day for public viewing, preserving centuries of English medieval and Civil War history.
